The Government envisions overcoming the severe energy crisis through application of renewable energy especially solar energy technologies. The Government in accordance with the Federal Policy for Development of Renewable Energy 2006(Revised in 2009) Framework and various other general, fiscal and financial incentives has initiated work to foster renewable energy generation.

Pakistan with high solar irradiation, especially in southern Punjab, makes solar technology a phenomenal response to the power crisis that currently ranges between 3000-5000 MW. Solar with its shorter set up time, modular design, and ease of integration with the existing infrastructure can be utilized to generate energy. Inam ur Rahman, CEO, Reon Energy Limited stated “Prices for solar PV systems have declined markedly in recent years. With increasing viability of solar, and greater regulatory support such as wheeling for renewable energy producers, mandatory purchase of power from IPPs, net metering offers enormous opportunities for private sector companies. Financial options if extensively available can further smoothen the process of transfer to solar technologies.” Reon Energy Limited is a part of Dawood Hercules Corporation Limited, the largest private sector energy provider in Pakistan. Reon with its quality products and service solutions has provided solutions for manufacturing companies, telecom towers, health care facilities, and academic institutions across Pakistan.  Reon has recently received its certification for ISO 14001: EMS making it one of the pioneering companies to implement health and safety standards in Pakistan.

Intervention at regulatory level from the government along with significant support from financial institutions can be a way forward for Pakistan’s energy industry. Further private sector companies must maintain product standards, Health, Safety and Environment (HSE) policies, and effective teams to make this process fruitful for the business community.